Emergency Department technician Elvin Padin of Bridgeport was named Employee of the Year and Medical ICU nurse Bob Brewster of Stratford received the George B. and Alice P. Longstreth Humanness Award during Bridgeport Hospital’s May 14 Employee Recognition Dinner at Webster Bank Arena. Dozens more were recognized for service excellence and years-of-service milestones.

“Elvin goes above and beyond for patients and staff every single shift,” Emergency Department Nurse Manager Meredith Fiumidinisi said of Padin, an 18-year hospital employee. “When Elvin is on duty, you know things will be done and patients will be taken care of.”

The Longstreth Award, named in honor of two longtime hospital supporters, was presented by Bridgeport Hospital Foundation President Steve Jakab.

“The amount of care Bob provides is immeasurable,” Jakab said about Brewster, who has been with the hospital for 22 years. “He treats everyone as a human being – with dignity and respect. He makes everyone feel important.”

The nearly 600 employees on hand at the dinner were all praised by hospital leaders.

“Whether hands-on with patients or not, you are all hands-on every day, and I thank you for that,” said President and CEO Bill Jennings.

“Make no mistake, our employees are the backbone of the hospital,” added Board of Directors Vice Chairman Newman Marsilius, speaking for the entire board. “You are all making a difference in the patient and family experience at Bridgeport Hospital.”

Chief Medical Officer Michael Ivy, MD, spoke for the medical staff. “Health care is a team sport,” he said. “Our doctors can’t provide great care without all of you. I can’t tell you how proud I am of Bridgeport Hospital.”

Nearly 100 employees were recognized for achieving service milestones of 25, 30, 35, 40 or 45 years. Another seven were cited for receiving at least 100 written mentions of service excellence from patients and colleagues.